1. A. Definition.

   1. (1) In this regulation, the following term has the meaning indicated.

   2. (2) Term Defined. “Weapon” means:

      1. (a) A device capable of propelling a projectile at high velocity by mechanical means, by explosion, or by expanding gas, including but not limited to a firearm, crossbow, or long bow;
      2. (b) A dirk knife, bowie knife, switchblade (except a penknife without a switchblade), sand club, metal knuckles, razor, or nunchaku; or

      3. (c) A device capable of:

         1. (i) Inflicting death or bodily harm to an individual;
         2. (ii) Maiming or killing wildlife; or
         3. (iii) Destroying property.
2. B. Except as provided in Regulation .04 of this chapter and §§C and D of this regulation, possession or use of weapons or firearms by an individual other than a law enforcement officer is prohibited in Chesapeake Forest Lands.
3. C. Target shooting is permitted only at designated shooting ranges. The regulations governing the use of these ranges shall be posted and strictly enforced.
4. D. Except when legally hunting or legally target shooting, an individual may not discharge a firearm on land or waters owned or controlled by the Service.
5. E. Firearms shall be unloaded, and arrows kept in a quiver or case, when in a Chesapeake Forest camping area in accordance with Regulation .07 of this chapter.

Authority: Natural Resources Article, §§ 5-209(a) and 10-808, Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1184)

Regulation .01B amended effective March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487)

Regulation .02D amended effective March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487); October 29. 2012 (39:21 Md. R. 1377)

Regulation .04A amended effective March 14, 2005 (32:5 Md. R. 579); March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487)

Regulation .07 amended effective March 14, 2005 (32:5 Md. R. 579)

Regulation .10A amended effective May 25, 2026 (53:10 Md. R. 454)

Regulation .13 adopted effective March 14, 2005 (32:5 Md. R. 579)

Regulation .13 amended effective March 11, 2019 (46:5 Md. R. 305)

Regulation .14 adopted effective March 14, 2005 (32:5 Md. R. 579)

Regulation .14 repealed and new Regulation .14 adopted effective March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487)

Regulation .15 adopted effective March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487)

Regulation .16 adopted effective March 23, 2009 (36:6 Md. R. 487)